Peru is one of the most diverse and dramatic countries in South America, providing a real snapshot of all the delights this buzzing continent has to offer. Our Peru specialists have put together their top ten reasons to visit this stunning country…

The legendary Inca Trail is generally considered to be one of the best treks in the world and is undoubtedly the most famous hike in South America. The journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu is unique and challenging and follows an ancient trail established by the Incas. It’s a spectacularly beautiful four-day trek studded with ruins from the Inca civilisation, revealing a fascinating story as it travels deep into Peru’s mysterious and complex past. Here’s the lowdown on trekking the Inca Trail.

The legendary Inca Trail may be revered as one of the best treks in the world, but it's not the only way to arrive at the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu. There are a handful of alternative routes to reach this impressive lost city, each offering something slightly different and appealing to different types of travellers. Read on for what we consider to be the best alternative ways to get to Machu Picchu...

Peru is bursting with archaeological sites and sacred cities scattered across the country. Home to the largest, the oldest and most iconic pre-Colombian ruins on the continent; Peru is one of the best places to explore a wealth of Ancient civilisations. Here at Imagine Latin America, we have put together the most significant and interesting sites in Peru to start you off on your archaeological adventure!

Peru, undoubtedly boasts the finest cuisine in Latin America and its capital city Lima is one of the culinary capitals of the world. The countries varying terrain, numerous micro-climates and ancient history intertwine to create a host of tantalising and diverse flavours. Our Peru experts have put together their favourite dishes (and drinks) to inspire and whet your appetite for a holiday to Peru.

Peru is a thrill seeker's dream. With so many diverse ecosystems and terrains, it is the perfect adventure playground. With hiking, horse riding, snorkelling, rafting, zip lining, and surfing, there really is something for everyone. With so much variety on offer, we’ve helped you out and narrowed down our top five adventure activities to help you get out and explore the country’s natural wonders...

Rich in history, culture and wildlife, family holidays in Peru have it all! From the magnificent Amazon jungle to the impressive Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, and of course not forgetting Machu Picchu - to name just a few highlights, there is something for every family member in Peru.

Having completed the Inca Trail 45 times, Latin America specialist Sonia knows her stuff! Here she gives some tips about what is absolutely essential to bring with you when doing the Inca Trail. You will be provided with a duffle bag which will be taken by our porters to the tents every night – you should fill it with clean clothes and all toiletries you’ll need for the night time. In terms of the packing list to take with you during the days, here’s Sonia’s lowdown:

Casa República

Lima, Peru

Casa Republica is a charming boutique hotel in Lima's bohemian Barranco district and is located in a stunning converted 1920s mansion building. It is perfectly placed to enjoy the bars, restaurants and galleries of Barranco.

Enjoying a central location in one of the coolest neighbourhoods of Peru's capital, Casa Republica is a great base for independent travellers wishing to explore Lima. This boutique hotel has been beautifully restored from a 1920s mansion but its décor remains fresh and modern with a nod to the traditional.

There are just 22 rooms and suites with beautiful high ceilings and large windows overlooking either the hotel gardens or the street below. Bikes are provided free of charge to get out and about, making it easy to reach the numerous galleries which can be found here, including the MaTe museum dedicated to legendary Peruvian photographer Mario Testino. Once you have finished exploring the art-filled leafy streets of Barranco, retreat to the library or the rooftop terrace for the perfect lounging spot.

When to go

Lima’s weather is very temperate due to its proximity to the equator. Winters in Lima can be quite grey as a result of the humid climate. Through most of winter Lima is covered in a layer of clouds and a light drizzle, or ‘garúa’; average temperatures are around 15°C. The summer months of December to March tend to be sunny and temperatures average around 22°C, though they can go as high as 27°C.

We want to be really clear about this. We offer amazing value. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive, it simply means attention to every detail of your trip arranged by a true expert.

Here at Imagine Latin America, we are so confident that we offer the best value on the market that we have a price promise. If you find the exact same holiday cheaper with another UK tour operator, then we promise to beat their price by £50.

Rest assured that all our holidays are 100% financially protected. Our ATOL bond protects holidays booked in the UK with flights. Our ABTOT bond protects holidays which are booked without flights or those booked outside the UK, either with or without flights.

Protection means that in the unlikely event that we become insolvent; your holiday will be refunded or you will be repatriated if already travelling or have flights with us.